Lu Bummularu Racconta Selinunte 628 A.C. (History of Sicily)

by Rocco Spanò, Marilena Spanò (Illustrator), Marco Mellace (Illustrator)

The peculiarity of the book lies in the fact that each chapter is introduced with a poetry, which is a nice peculiarity and makes an impact on the reader due to its short nature. A way that splits between short story, poem and novel. Another striking feature are the illustrations inserted throughout the story. The story is set in the happy and glorious period of ancient Greece in 628 B.C. in Selinunte and speaks about an object made by the young craftsman Obelius. An object handed down until the 1960s. Bummulu comes from the Greek word 'bombùlion' meaning vase. It would therefore be the story of the creation of a simple container to keep water and wine cool and the adventure of life in Selinunte. It is a sea voyage from Greece to Sicily, where Obelius with his family and other Megareans set up a new colony under the name of Selinos. This name is due to the smell of celery when arriving there. A fictional tale that describes the dream of realising a new agricultural-commercial polis through the union of everyone's strength to help the community. A book that revives the beauty of ancient Greece in Sicily. The story begins from Megara Nisea, Greece, with some misadventures during the journey and the landing at the spot pointed out by the oracle. Obelius goes on talking about the construction of Selinunte after three groups of men have explored the area. The hero continues talking about his adventure in Greece and the Olympic Games, life in Selinunte, his family's work and a dire foreboding What does this book give you? The story is in a variety of exciting genres, from fiction to history - making reading fun and you feel relaxed. This book is good for people with not a lot of time to sit down and read. You can read a chapter a day and I think that’s the best way. If you are an avid reader you can read it all in one go, because the historical content is told with simplicity,abundance of detail,which captivates you and transports you emotionally. Why not for students, they will learn ancient Greek history in Sicily and Sicilian traditions. Learning a foreign language is always a challenge. Being constantly exposed to the language one aims to master is the best way to speed up the learning process. It’s not just by listening to a language that you get to learn it. Reading has also been proven to be a very effective way to learn a foreign language as it helps everyone to become familiar with the proper grammar use, the rhythms, forms and rules of the language. The story is fluid, continuous and filled with a variety of helpful vocabulary combined with a grammatical richness.

77 pages, Paperback

Published October 1, 2023

Reviews

[Mehmet Çalışkan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rocco Spanò’s Lu Bummularu is a work of historical fiction that uniquely combines poetry, art, and cultural heritage. The story centers on the young potter Obelius and his journey from Greece to Sicily in 628 B.C. The author, through Obelius’s perspective, shows both individual effort and the birth of a civilization. With its compelling narrative that reflects the enduring power of cultural roots, solidarity, and human labor, I definitely recommend this book to history and culture enthusiasts, as well as to those who enjoy art and poetry.

[Jerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Author offers a poignant portrayal of a community facing adversity, highlighting themes of resilience, collective action, and the cyclical nature of life.

Through vivid imagery and lyrical prose, it invites you to contemplate the enduring impact of our actions and the beauty found in life's fleeting moments.

Overall a very good read

[Arnav · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Lu Bummularu: The Potter Tells Us the Story of Selinunte 628 B.C." by Rocco Spanò is a captivating blend of fiction and history that transports readers to the happy and glorious period of ancient Greece in Sicily. Each chapter is introduced with a poem, adding a unique and impactful dimension to the storytelling. The inclusion of illustrations further enhances the reading experience, bringing the narrative to life.

The story follows the journey of the young craftsman Obelius as he ventures from Greece to Sicily, where he and his family establish a new colony named Selinos. Through Obelius' perspective, readers witness the dream of creating a new agricultural-commercial polis and the challenges faced by the community. The narrative is rich in detail and seamlessly weaves together elements of adventure, family dynamics, and foreboding.

"Lu Bummularu" is not only an engaging read but also a valuable resource for learning about ancient Greek history in Sicily and Sicilian traditions. The book's accessible language and abundance of detail make it suitable for readers of all levels, from beginners to advanced learners. Whether reading a chapter a day or devouring it in one sitting, readers will find themselves immersed in a story that entertains, educates, and inspires.

Overall, "Lu Bummularu" earns a resounding five-star rating for its immersive storytelling, educational value, and sheer enjoyment factor. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[Maria Nicol · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful book, with a story of a journey, by sea between Greece and Sicily.
Set in 628 BC, the story follows Obelius, a young craftsman and also his passion for creating terracotta vases: the Bummulu.
It is a journey that, in its unraveling between the waves, merges into the sea of ​​poetry and the historical narration of ancient Selinunte.
Furthermore, touches of colors and images, make reading pleasant and captivating, capturing the spirit with tones of adventure, but also with a fusion of cultures worthily represented.

[Rocco Spanò · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rachel g

5.0 out of 5 stars

Verified Purchase
Historia corta que deja huella
Reviewed in Australia

 on 5 September 2025
Lo disfruté mucho. Cada capítulo comienza con un poema, lo que le da un ritmo fresco y casi lírico a la lectura. La mezcla de historia, mito e ilustraciones lo hace fácil de seguir, aunque sea corto. Se nota el cuidado con el que fue escrito: es de esos libros que terminas rápido pero se quedan contigo después.

[Jon]

Enlightening.

[Booksbyhanna11 · Rating 5 out of 5]

✍️"Lu Bummularu" – A Journey Through Time and Emotion**

✍️"Lu Bummularu" is a remarkable blend of fiction, history, and poetry that stands out as an exceptional literary work. Set against the vivid backdrop of ancient Selinunte in 628 B.C., this novel invites readers to immerse themselves in the life of Obelius, a young craftsman. His journey, alongside his family, to establish a new colony in Sicily unfolds as a rich tapestry of human experience, ambition, and cultural exploration.

✍️The narrative artfully interweaves historical detail with a compelling storyline. As Obelius navigates the challenges of founding a colony, readers gain insight into the customs, beliefs, and daily life of ancient Greek society. The author's meticulous research is evident, as the story is populated with vivid descriptions and authentic historical references that transport readers to a time long past. This attention to detail not only enhances the narrative but also serves as an educational tool, making the book particularly valuable for students and history enthusiasts.

✍️One of the most distinctive features of "Lu Bummularu" is its structure. Each chapter begins with a carefully composed poem that sets the tone and theme for the events to come. These poems act as a bridge between the historical context and the personal experiences of the characters, inviting readers to reflect on the emotions and struggles depicted in the story. This poetic element enriches the reading experience, providing depth and resonance that linger long after the page is turned.

✍️Illustrations throughout the book further enhance the storytelling. These visual elements serve not only to break up the text but also to bring to life the landscapes, people, and events of ancient Sicily. The artwork complements the narrative, allowing readers to visualize the world in which Obelius lives and the challenges he faces. Together, the illustrations and text create a multi-dimensional experience that captivates the imagination.

✍️The narrative itself is fluid and engaging, making it accessible to a wide range of readers. Whether you're an avid reader or someone with limited time, "Lu Bummularu" offers an engaging story that is easy to dive into. The prose is crafted in a way that maintains a brisk pace, ensuring that readers remain captivated by the unfolding drama of Obelius's life.

✍️For language learners, this book serves as an invaluable resource. The varied vocabulary and contextualized language help improve English skills in a natural and enjoyable way. Readers can engage with the text at their own pace, using the rich narrative to expand their understanding of language while also learning about a significant period in history.

✍️In summary, "Lu Bummularu" is more than just a historical novel; it is an evocative exploration of ancient Greece that seamlessly combines learning with pleasure. Through the eyes of Obelius, readers experience the trials and triumphs of life in a new colony, gaining insight into the resilience of the human spirit. This delightful book is highly recommended for anyone interested in history, culture, and the timeless art of storytelling. Whether for academic purposes or personal enjoyment, "Lu Bummularu" promises to be a rewarding read that lingers in the mind and heart.

Highly recommended 📚💯

[Royal Uk · Rating 5 out of 5]

A unique and inspirational reading lu bummularu: the potter tells us story of selinute .... blends historical fiction with poetic themes and vistal skills. It's an entertainment and instructive read because of the carefull blending of poetry and art must read it I love it a Lovely book

[Serdar ÇALIŞKAN · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you

[M Schultz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love historical fiction and I enjoyed this book quite a bit. It differs from many other books because it has simple illustrations and short poetry that precedes each chapter.
Another thing that sets this book apart from many other historical fiction books is that the story is a vehicle to share detailed information about life during a glorious part of ancient Greek history.
The author does a marvelous job of pulling off this trick. The story is pleasant to read and the details of daily life, commerce and customs are quite interesting.
I enjoyed this book a great deal and give it 4.7 stars.

[Stephen J., · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great, and exciting story that transcends one back to Italy's past. The details of the characters and scenery are so vivid, that it leaves one wanting to read more! I actually felt like I was there, experiencing it all and actually one of the "Stone Cutters!" Nicely done!

[Vanessa Edwards · Rating 4 out of 5]

An intriguing and interesting premise — but the book would shine brighter with a good edit!

This book, "Lu Bummularu" The potter tells us the story of Selinunte 628 B.C., has an intriguing and interesting premise — a slice of early Sicilian history is seen through the lens of a young craftsman and the artisanal pottery product he makes, a ‘bummulu’ or vase. Or perhaps ‘jar’ would be a more natural translation … which bring me to one of my criticisms.

But first, the positives. "Lu Bummularu" does what it says on the tin (or jar …) and traces a rich narrative around the founding of the Greek city Selinunte in Sicily, described by the young Obelius whose family sail from Megara Nisea in Greece to launch a new city-state. The journey — both literal and metaphorical — is vividly described with much information on many topics from olive harvesting to quarrying to rubbish collection.

The narrative is interspersed with charming drawings and other images illustrating different aspects of the texts and with fragments of the author’s verse.

For this reader, the main downside is the quality of the English. I am a translator and hesitate to criticise what I know to be a demanding profession, but the entire book would benefit immeasurably from a close edit by a native speaker. Much of the English is stiff and/or inelegant, while giving tantalising glimpses of what I’m sure is sublime Italian underlying it. This flaw is all the more disturbing given that the English edition’s blurb promotes it as ‘Carefully curated to make learning a new language easy’, concluding that ‘this Historical novel in English for Beginners will make learning English easy and enjoyable’. Leaving aside the sometimes cumbersome style, this is not English for beginners (especially given that the book’s reading age is described as 10-18). From pages chosen at random, children ‘consecrate their toys’ and ‘throw stones or ankle bones into the air’ and Obelius visits ‘the quarry where they extract the volcanic material [and] apply iron wedges’ and refers to the time when Thisbe and Piramo ‘consummated their drama of love as told by our poet lyricists’.

The other negative, less important perhaps but still something that trips the attentive reader, is the standard of editing more generally. There are inconsistencies in the formatting, spacing, font and the spelling of some names, and numerous instances of dialogue having opening but no closing quotes.

Please put this very promising and intriguing book through a rigorous read for the English and a careful copy edit for the rest so that it can show its full potential and shine as it should!

[Suzan Book Formatter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rocco Spanò's 'Lu Bummularu' is a beautifully crafted historical novel that transcends genres and transports readers back to ancient Greece and Sicily. What sets this book apart is its unique structure, with each chapter opening with a poignant poem, adding depth and rhythm to the narrative. The introduction of poems, combined with striking illustrations, creates a mesmerizing reading experience.

The story is set in 628 B.C., during the glorious period of ancient Greece, and follows Obelius, a young craftsman, on a sea voyage from Greece to Sicily, where he and his family set up the new colony of Selinos. The journey is filled with adventure, misadventures, and the dreams of building a thriving agricultural-commercial polis. Spanò skillfully brings the ancient world to life, weaving historical accuracy with a captivating fictional tale.

What makes 'Lu Bummularu' even more special is its accessibility. With each chapter just 6-8 pages long, it's perfect for readers with limited time, making it an ideal choice for a chapter-a-day approach or a single engrossing session. The simple yet vivid storytelling keeps you engaged, and the abundance of detail immerses you in the world of Selinunte.

This book is also a fantastic resource for students learning English or those interested in ancient Greek history. The language is controlled to suit various levels of proficiency, providing a natural way to improve vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension skills. It's a pleasure to read, and the engaging storyline helps to reduce the frustration often associated with learning a new language.

Overall, 'Lu Bummularu' is an inspiring journey through time, blending history, fiction, and culture in a way that captivates readers. Whether you're interested in ancient Greece, learning English, or just seeking an enjoyable story, this book has something for everyone.

[Shahid · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Lu Bummularu: The Potter Tells Us the Story of Selinunte 628 B.C." by Rocco Spanò is a captivating blend of history, fiction, and poetry that transports readers to ancient Greece and Sicily. Set in 628 B.C., the story follows Obelius, a young craftsman, and his creation of a simple yet significant vessel—the Bummulu. This object, symbolizing the merging of cultures and the endurance of tradition, travels through time from ancient Selinunte to the 1960s.

Each chapter begins with a poem, adding a lyrical touch that enhances the narrative's impact. The book's illustrations further enrich the storytelling experience, making it a visually and emotionally engaging read. The tale is more than just a historical account; it captures the spirit of adventure, the challenges of founding a new colony, and the dreams of creating a thriving agricultural and commercial society.

Ideal for readers interested in ancient history, this book is also a valuable resource for language learners. Its accessible language and rich vocabulary make it perfect for beginners and intermediate students, offering both entertainment and educational value. "Lu Bummularu" is a brief yet immersive journey through time, making it a great choice for those with limited reading time or anyone eager to delve into the beauty of ancient Greece in Sicily

[Select Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Lu Bummularu" de Rocco Spano es una narracion en primera persona en la que un alfarero llamado Obelius habla de la antigua Grecia en el ano 628 a. C., su viaje desde Selinunte, Grecia, a Sicilia y la creacion de una nueva colonia llamada Selinos. El título hace referencia a un jarron, o "bombulion", que Obelius fabrico y que posteriormente se transmitio de generacion en generacion, sobreviviendo hasta la decada de 1960.

El libro es unico porque presenta ficcion historica, poesía original y bocetos interesantes. La narracion esta en la voz de un artesano griego, el texto es claro, interesante e informativo, la poesía se complementa, los bocetos son cautivadores y el efecto general es armonioso.

"Lu Bummularu" rezuma un encanto rural que quizas no todos los lectores aprecien plenamente. Afortunadamente, hay muchos lectores a quienes les gusta la historia, la poesía y el arte, y Rocco Spano cubre eficazmente estas areas y mas en esta primera entrega de su serie Historia de Sicilia.


Rocco Spanò’s "Lu Bummularu" is a first-person narrative in which a potter, named Obelius, talks of ancient Greece in 628 B.C., his voyage from Selinunte, Greece to Sicily, and the creation of a new colony, named Selinos. The title refers to a vase, or “bombùlion,” which Obelius made, and which was later passed down from generation to generation, surviving into the 1960s.

The book is unique in that is features historical fiction, original poetry, and interesting sketches throughout. The narration is in the voice of a Greek craftsman, the text is clear, interesting, and informative, the poetry is complementary, the sketches are engaging, and the overall affect is harmonious.

"Lu Bummularu" exudes a certain kind of old-country charm, which may not be fully appreciated by every reader. Fortunately, there are many readers who fancy history, poetry, and art, and Rocco Spanò effectively covers these areas and more in this first installment of his History of Sicily series.

[Prisha Rohra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rocco Spanò's "Lu Bummularu: The Potter Tells Us the Story of Selinunte 628 B.C." is a fascinating work of historical fiction that takes readers to Sicily during the joyous and brilliant era of ancient Greece. A poem opens each chapter, giving the narrative a distinctive and powerful element. The story is given more life by the graphics, which also improve the reading experience.

The narrative centres on young craftsman Obelius' voyage from Greece to Sicily, where he founds the colony of Selinos with his family. Readers see the community's struggles as well as the goal of building a new agricultural-commercial polis from Obelius' point of view. The story is intricately detailed and skillfully combines aspects of adventure, familial relationships, and suspense.

In addition to being a fascinating book, "Lu Bummularu" is an invaluable tool for studying Sicilian customs and ancient Greek history in the region. Because of its clear language and wealth of information, readers of all skill levels can benefit from reading this book, from novices to experts. Readers will become engrossed in a narrative that enlightens, entertains, and encourages them whether they want to read a chapter a day or finish it all at once.

[World Of · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Lu Bummularu: The Potter Tells Us the Story of Selinunte 628 B.C." by Rocco Spanò is a captivating piece of historical fiction that transports readers to Sicily during the vibrant era of ancient Greece. Each chapter begins with a poem, adding a unique and impactful touch to the narrative. The inclusion of graphics further enhances the reading experience, bringing the story to life with visual elements.

The tale tracks the young artisan Obelius as he travels from Greece to Sicily, founding a new settlement called Selinos with his family. Through Obelius' eyes, readers experience the aspiration to build a thriving agricultural and trade hub, alongside the struggles encountered by the community. The story is intricately detailed, blending adventure, familial relationships, and ominous undertones into a cohesive narrative.

"Lu Bummularu" serves as an essential resource for exploring Sicilian traditions and ancient Greek history in the area. Its accessible language and comprehensive content cater to readers at any level of expertise, whether newcomers or seasoned scholars. Engaging and informative, the narrative of the book draws readers in, offering enlightenment, entertainment, and inspiration, whether they prefer to read a chapter daily or finish it in one sitting.

[S.P. Somtow · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are some problems with this author's narrative techniques that often undermine what could be a thrilling adventure story. One problem for instance is that there's no consistency of tense. Using the historic present is a fine way to add a sense of immediacy, but here it makes those passages appear like a summing-up of action or even an outline of a narrative that yet needs to be filled out. There is a character whose name changes back and forth from Karen to Karan, and in the very first sentence, the first person narrator mentions the story is set in 628 B.C., something no one in that period could have known. So ... there are times when I get the feeling that story is being translated from another language and none too sensitively, because there *is* a really good tale buried in there. The milieu, set in Magna Graecia, the part of southern Italy/Sicily that was originally colonized by the Greeks, is a fascinating one. Not many stories are set in that period and there are a wealth of interesting factoids and information to be had in this book despite the writing style. There is much promise here.

[Micki Mirello · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story follows a young craftsman, Obelius, as he and his family set out from Greece to Sicily, and it really makes you feel like you’re right alongside them starting a new life. What I thought was super cool is how the book mixes storytelling with poetry at the start of each chapter. You get these little poems that set the mood and make the story feel extra meaningful, plus the illustrations just bring everything to life even more. The writing is full of details about daily life, family, and building a new community, and there’s a nice sense of hope and resilience running through the whole thing. It’s easy to learn a few things while you read, too, especially about ancient Greek and Sicilian traditions, but it never feels boring or like a school book. The whole vibe is gentle and poetic, and it gives you a look at how people worked together and kept going no matter what. Whether you read a chapter a day or fly through it in one go, it’s honestly a charming read that sticks with you.

[Frank Gaipa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rocco Spanò’s Lu Bummularu fictionalizes a 628 B. C. journey from southern Greece to Sicily and the establishment of a new community. Spanò’s first person narrator, a male adolescent who nears adulthood during the tale, describes in moderate detail his way of life with special emphasis on the immigrants’ adaptation to the new land and on certain crafts, skills, and foodstuffs.

The nearest comparison I can think of is Mary Renault’s historical fiction. Renault’s narrative thrust and detail are substantially finer, but Spanò makes a worthy effort.

The book’s formatting is amateurish but is seldom a problem. Spanò’s poetry is harmless, but the illustrations by Marilena Spanò and, in at least one instance, by Rocco are quite nice.

[Ollie Kayuro · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Journey Through Time, Art, and Memory

The first thing that struck me about Bummulu was the illustrations and poems by Rocco Spanu.
The story reads like a modern retelling of an ancient Greek myth. It follows Obelius, a young craftsman whose simple clay vessel becomes a symbol of life, tradition, and continuity.

I love that, though the story is set in ancient times, it feels deeply relevant today. It echoes the experience of people who leave their homes in search of a better life, carrying with them not just their belongings but also their hopes and dreams.

[Darken Library · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a member of the Mindshare Book Club, I found Lu Bummularu Racconta Selinunte 628 A.C. a captivating blend of history, art, and Sicilian culture. Rocco Spanò brings ancient Selinunte to life through poetic storytelling, beautiful illustrations, and vivid details that transport readers to the early days of the Greek colony.

The mix of Italian and Sicilian dialect adds authenticity and warmth, making it both educational and deeply human. A wonderful tribute to heritage, craftsmanship, and the spirit of community.

[Rocco Spanò · Rating 5 out of 5]

Un viaggio nei ricordi

Recensito in Italia il 5 agosto 2025

Ho visitato la Sicilia molte volte e porto nel cuore i suoi paesaggi, la gente e la storia. Leggere questo libro è stato come tornare lì per un momento. La narrazione semplice ma viva mi ha fatto sorridere e ricordare i racconti ascoltati nei mercati e nei paesini. Un libro che scalda il cuore, soprattutto per chi ha un legame affettivo con la Sicilia.

[SUSAN Ca · Rating 4 out of 5]

I see how all the good genes can be selectively relocated to another Polis.
Its themes of communalism, resilience, religion and oracles, and onomastics in Things Fall Apart (by Chinua Achebe).
I like the character names:
- Obelius ()
- Pammilo
- Karan

And place names:
Megara Nisea
Megara Iblea

I will keep recommending Lubummularu.

[Orlando D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting way of writing a book, short book but each story starts with a poem, and the poem captures the overall setting of the story that comes with it. Nice short stories from Greece to Sicily, to bring a different view of a craftsman simply shipping water and rations back forth, but you can visualize the adventure behind the voyages.

[Ayomide Iregbekhai · Rating 5 out of 5]

A warm and vivid tale that blends history, poetry, and storytelling beautifully. Easy to read, culturally rich, and perfect for language learners.

[World Literature Magazine · Rating 4 out of 5]

The journey, the attack from the pirates, the oracles of Greek gods, the Olympic games, building the new Polis . . . I hope to see Obelius' marriage.

[Cristina Mia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lu Bummularu, Sicilian for "potter," or "pot", narrates the story of Obelius on his journey from Megara, Greece, together with his mother Thekla, his father Otis, and many other Megareans, to populate and develop Selinos, a new Greek colony in Sicily.
The author describes, in simple and factual language, how the settlers built their new polis and life within it, from importing olive trees, vines, and sheep to erecting temples and establishing a community, even detailing children’s games.
The story is told from the point of view of Obelius, which made me feel transported to cca 600 BC, sitting beside him and watching as he shapes a bummulu (clay vessel).
I would recommend further editing and proofreading to do proper justice to this lovely story of customs and traditions, fortunes and misfortunes, in ancient Sicily.

[Anneli Tumanski · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book and good read about one of the most popular historical sights in Sicily. Having visited this place myself it makes the book much more interesting to me.
The writing style is informative and easy to understand to non-Italian speakers as well and also makes it suitable to handle in learning process for Italian students and others.
Big thanks to the author Rocco Spano for a great book!

[Rocco Spanò · Rating 5 out of 5]

Un viaggio nei ricordi

Recensito in Italia il 5 agosto 2025

Ho visitato la Sicilia molte volte e porto nel cuore i suoi paesaggi, la gente e la storia. Leggere questo libro è stato come tornare lì per un momento. La narrazione semplice ma viva mi ha fatto sorridere e ricordare i racconti ascoltati nei mercati e nei paesini. Un libro che scalda il cuore, soprattutto per chi ha un legame affettivo con la Sicilia.